The characteristics of a pregnant person based on changes in their body (other than a distended stomach)

When a woman's stomach gets bigger, you may immediately think she is pregnant. Yes, one of the characteristics of pregnancy that everyone immediately realizes is a growing belly. But, are there any characteristics of a pregnant person other than their growing belly?

Physical characteristics of a pregnant person, apart from a distended stomach

1. Breast changes

In addition to a pregnant woman's stomach that gets bigger during pregnancy, changes in breasts to become bigger are also a characteristic of pregnant people that are easy to find. Female hormone levels immediately change after fertilization occurs in her uterus. And, this can cause your breasts to become large. Apart from getting bigger, the breasts also feel painful and are more sensitive. You may feel your breasts fuller and tingle when you touch them.

Apart from the shape of your breasts, your nipples also undergo changes. The nipple becomes bigger and the area around the nipple (called the areola) becomes darker. These enlarged breasts and nipples are prepared by your body to produce milk and breastfeed when your baby is born.

It may take you weeks to adjust to these breast changes. To make you more comfortable with this change, it's best to wear a bra that fits your breast shape. You may need to buy a bra that is bigger than your usual bra size.

2. Changes in skin and hair

When you are pregnant, you also experience various changes in your hair and skin. These changes are normal for every pregnant woman. You may experience problems with hair growth, as well as changes in skin color (pigmentation). Your skin can also be more sensitive and itchy.

Skin discoloration often occurs on the neck, face, and other areas that are frequently exposed to the sun. Some pregnant women may feel their skin brighter during pregnancy, some may find their skin duller and darker during pregnancy. These changes usually vary between pregnant women. In addition, if you have a birthmark or mole, it will also turn darker when you are pregnant.

Not only that, your blood vessels may also be visible in certain parts of your body. This can happen because a small blood vessel has burst because pregnant women supply a lot of blood during pregnancy. These tiny blood vessels that are visible under the skin are known as spider veins (spider veins). The blood vessels in your calves can also burst. These are called varicose veins, and they usually appear blue and painful.

3. Changes in basal body temperature

During conception, your body temperature may slightly rise to about half a degree or higher. This slightly higher body temperature may last a few weeks after you get pregnant or stop menstruating. This means, at this time you may be pregnant.

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